Animals are helping PTSD

Animals are helping PTSD! A week ago I connected with Karolyn Smith, a veteran of the Army and the war in Iraq. She has PTSD and TBI and has found a way to cope that helps here. The story here is about how she is coping and moving forward. There are organizations like Saratoga Warhorse and Active Heroes using horses to help those with PTSD and TBI. We are also seeing stories about how much service dogs are helping those with PTSD. As with Karolyn’s story, animals are really helping those with PTSD overcome and start to heal. With the number of veterans and others trying to cope with PTSD, we really need to encourage non-government organizations to continue to provide help.

The support of animals needs to be encouraged and supported. There are so many instances of them really helping. Often the animals are injured and wounded, rescued from terrible situations and just as in need of tender loving care as the men and women suffering from PTSD. There are instances of dogs, cats, horse, goats, birds and even bees providing therapeutic help. We have also seen the advent of therapy farms such as Dysfunctional Veterans who work with homeless vets , many of whom are suffering from mental health problems. Again, animals are part of the therapy. We need to keep this going and encourage these organizations to continue to help because animals are helping PTSD.

I know that the VA and others are making progress on expanding access to health care for those suffering from PTSD and TBI. There are still cases of those who need help not receiving it, sometimes leading to suicide, unfortunately. We are seeing non-government organizations providing assistance to veterans and others with PTSD. Organizations like Save A Warrior, #PTSDchat, Operation Mend, and others are advocating for veterans and others suffering from PTSD and TBI.